Danish Brunsviger Cake: A Sweet Tribute to Tradition
This Danish Brunsviger Cake, steeped in familial love and cherished memories, is a delightful yeast bread that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. The recipe is a tribute to my mother, who first taught me the joys of baking at a young age. As we prepare to make this cake, let us celebrate not only the delicious flavors but also the bonds we create through cooking. This particular cake is a favorite in Denmark, known for its soft, sweet bread topped with a luscious brown sugar and butter mixture, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Yeast Breads
- Aggregated Rating: ★★★★★ (1 review)
Nutritional Information (per slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 519.3 |
| Total Fat | 23 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 61 mg |
| Sodium | 443 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 71 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugars | 23.4 g |
| Protein | 7.7 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 400 ml | Milk |
| 50 g | Dry yeast |
| 60 g | Butter |
| 3 g | Sugar |
| 1 g | Salt |
| 600 g | Flour |
| 200 g | Butter (for filling) |
| 200 g | Brown sugar |
Instructions
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Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Begin by gently stirring the dry yeast into the lukewarm milk. The milk should be warm to the touch but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, rub the cold butter into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for incorporating the fat into the flour, leading to a tender crumb in the final product.
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Add Sugar and Salt: Once the butter is well incorporated into the flour, add the sugar and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution.
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Form the Dough: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This process develops the gluten, which is crucial for the bread’s structure.
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First Rise: Divide the dough into two portions, shape them into balls, and place them in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for approximately 20 minutes, or until they have doubled in size. A slightly turned-off oven or a warm spot on your countertop works perfectly for this step.
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Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, melt the remaining butter in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, mixing until well combined and the sugar has dissolved slightly, creating a rich and syrupy filling that will soak into the cake during baking.
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Shape the Cake: After the dough has risen, take one portion and flatten it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle that fits your baking pan. Transfer the flattened dough into a greased baking dish, ensuring it is evenly spread.
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Top the Dough: Pour the melted butter and brown sugar mixture over the risen dough, allowing it to drizzle evenly across the surface. This will create a gooey, delicious topping as it bakes.
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Final Rise: Cover the cake again with the kitchen towel and allow it to rise for an additional 10-15 minutes while your oven preheats.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, bake the Brunsviger Cake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is cooked through. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, reminiscent of home and the love shared around the dinner table.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing it into generous pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a cup of coffee, and enjoy a taste of Danish tradition.
Final Thoughts
This Danish Brunsviger Cake is not only a delightful treat but also a connection to cherished memories and traditions. Baking this cake can be a beautiful way to remember loved ones while creating new memories with those around you. Whether enjoyed during a special occasion or as a comforting afternoon snack, each slice is infused with love and history. Happy baking!
